Porringer, 1788-1816

Porringers have many uses. They could be used to mix or serve food. People ate meals or drank wine, beer or other beverages from porringers. These small bowls have a flat decorative handle--sometimes two; and were made from silver, cast iron, pottery, or like this one, pewter. These versatile bowls served the needs of many 18th and 19th-century American households.